American Legion Post 77 looking to jumpstart Hometown Heroes banner project

EASTON — An effort to honor past and present veterans, firefighters and police officers gained momentum at the Easton Town Council on Monday evening.

Joan Harris-Brooks, speaking on behalf of Blake-Blackston American Legion Post 77, asked the council to partner with the group in creating a banner program so that families of Talbot County veterans, firefighters and officers can honor their loved ones.

Harris-Brooks said the banners would be placed on Ward 4 roads such as Glenwood Avenue, Port Street and West Street. Her father, John Harris Jr., and her uncle were members of Post 77, which operates on Glenwood Avenue.

With members of Post 77 in attendance, council members expressed nothing but support for the project.

“I think that this is a great endeavor,” Ward 4 Council Member the Rev. Elmer Davis said. “(It’s important) that we don’t lose the memory of those persons who fought for our country. I believe it’s our responsibility to help out with this project. Secondly, it doesn’t cost the town a dime.”

The Hometown Heroes Banner program began in 2006 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Today, Mid-Shore towns including Federalsburg, Hurlock and Preston showcase banners honoring past and present veterans.

Harris-Brooks said the banners would cost $200 each. There will be no ask of the council to provide any money for the project.

She asked that the town office hold blank applications for interested families, in addition to applications being advertised on social media and at Post 77.

“It will instill a sense of pride and unity in Easton and for our country,” Harris-Brooks told the council. “It is our goal that you grant us approval. And we believe that if you grant us an approval, this will make a landmark for you as our councilmen.”

Council members unanimously approved the request. Prior to voting, the council expressed hopes that the banner project could extend to the entire town.

Harris-Brooks said that Post 77 will accept donations from the community that can help families who cannot afford the cost of a banner. She added that Post 77 will work with American Legion Talbot Post 70, Easton Utilities and the town as the project comes to life.

“I think our children need to be aware,” Harris-Brooks said. “We still have young people still enlisted in the service. I will just very passionately say my uncle was a member of Post 77 … He gave his ultimate self serving.”

Commander Victor Middleton thanked the council for their support following the approval.

“When people say thank you for your service, it really lifted me up just now to a higher level,” Middleton said. “And I thank you all.”